When starting a new aquarium it is important to understand the nitrogen cycle. Many new Aquarium Tank owners jump into the hobby of fish keeping too quickly. Before purchasing fish, the aquarium has to be cycled. This may take anywhere from around twenty four hours to a month. In an established aquarium there are certain bacteria which help the breakdown of ammonia to nitrates, but they are not found in a brand new tank since they are generated from existing fish. If there aren't any existing fish, then there are no good bacteria.
The fundamental principle with the nitrogen cycle is this. Fish eat food and produce waste materials. That waste along with excess food and plant debris become ammonia within the aquarium. Ammonia is toxic to fish and needs to be broken down. This is exactly why the nitrifying bacteria is important. This bacteria, turns the ammonia into nitrites which are much more tolerable to fish than ammonia. Next, different nitrifying bacteria will turn the nitrites into nitrates, that are even less toxic for the fish and other aquarium life. The nitrates are collected and minimized by filters; however they will ultimately accumulate within the tank. Regular water changes are required to take away the nitrates in the water.
You will need to setup and run a fish tank before any fish are introduced in the environment. Wash the tank and any substrate and decorations thoroughly with water. Avoid using any soap. Fill the tank with de-chlorinated water and attach filters and lighting. Permit the tank to cycle until the water has stopped being cloudy and adequate P.H and water temperatures have been established.If you do not want the hassle of dealing with fish illnesses and aquarium difficulties but nonetheless want to enjoy taking a look at fish check out these moving screensavers for free for your laptop or computer!
Now it's time to purchase the fish! Buy hardy fish like danios, barb, gouramis, and live bearers. They should be able to withstand the high nitrite levels and ammonia within the new aquarium. Only introduce four fish at a time. Float the fish in the bag in the aquarium for approximately 15 minutes before adding them to the tank. This helps the fish become acclimated to the water temperature within their new home. When adding the fish, take care not to allow the water from the bag into the tank. It might be contaminated, or will at minimum, throw off the temperature and P.H. Permit the fish about two hours to get acclimated prior to feeding.
Only feed an amount which can be ingested in the first two to 5 minutes. Overfeeding is a very common problem in an aquarium. It is important not to overfeed, because excess food can become debris contributing to the ammonia levels. This is especially important in new aquariums that lack nitrifying bacteria. Test the water P.H. every single day during the 1st month. Watch the tank for cloudiness; if ever the fish tank becomes cloudy, it might be required to add a clarifier. Monitor the fish for signs of stress or illness. A healthy fish will be swimming regularly. Lethargic fish will most likely hover near the surface of the tank. After about a week change approximately ten percent of the water and start regular maintenance.
Also don't forget that you can view a multitude of beautiful fresh and saltwater fish varieties right at your computer screen with free moving screensavers. They are 100% Cost-free, look wonderful, and offer a perfect solution for an instant tropical getaway at any time of the day!
